Energy efficiency measures, coupled with on-site solar generation, means healthier living spaces, and reduced greenhouse gas emissions in the District
DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA, September 17, 2018 — The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is pleased to announce the completion of a two-year weatherization and solar installation project at Garfield Terrace, a 277-unit complex that houses low–income families, disabled individuals, and seniors.
Garfield Terrace, a District of Columbia Housing Authority (DCHA) property, is located in northwest DC. The nine townhomes, 43 walk-up apartment units, and 225 units that comprise Garfield Terrace received energy efficiency measures like LED lighting, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, showerheads, insulation, air sealing, thermostats, mechanical ventilation systems and timers, a new roof, and solar PV panels. Weatherization practices increase the energy efficiency of dwellings, reduce the total residential energy expenditures, and improve the health and safety of the occupants in the home.
“Increasing energy efficiency and installing on-site renewable energy at properties like Garfield Terrace doesn’t just save money;” said DOEE Director Tommy Wells, “it also pushes us closer toward Mayor Bowser’s aggressive climate and energy goals. Equally important, these projects help create healthier homes, by decreasing energy consumption and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”
DCHA is planning to add new water efficient and energy efficient upgrades at Garfield Terrace as part of a large sustainable capital improvement program. These enhancements include hot water system control retrofits, boiler burner controls, domestic hot water pumps, chiller retrofits, chiller controls, corridor ventilation replacements, and more.
“While DCHA has been adding solar arrays, energy efficiencies, and other sustainable measures to its portfolio, Garfield Terrace is the agency’s first full solar installation for electricity generation at a traditional public housing property. These panels will reduce our existing energy consumption by approximately 10 percent at the site. That means lower utility costs and reinvesting that savings into other fixes throughout the portfolio to better serve our customers,” said DCHA Executive Director Tyrone Garrett. “We are excited to have this opportunity thanks to DOEE and our federal and community partners.”
The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE), the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), and the District’s Renewable Energy Development Fund funded the Garfield Terrace project. The work was completed through DOEE’s partnerships with the Greater Washington Urban League and Fry Plumbing in partnership with Sturdy Communities.
For more information or questions about the Garfield Terrace project, contact LaWanda Jones at [email protected] or call (202) 299-3316.